Keenum vying for Texans final QB spot

Gary Kubiak said Tuesday that only John Beck and rookie Case Keenum will see action at quarterback in the Texans’ final preseason game against Minnesota on Thursday night as he tries to decide whom to keep as the third QB behind Matt Schaub and T. J. Yates.

Beck will start and play the first half. Keenum will play the third and fourth quarters. The Texans have to cut their roster to 53 players on Friday.

Because Keenum is a rookie, the former University of Houston star could be released then re-signed to the team’s practice squad next week. But he’d have to clear waivers first.

Fans’ enthusiasm evident at lunch

The Texans practiced Tuesday morning, then held their annual kickoff luncheon at the Westin Galleria Hotel. Conspicuously missing were receiver Andre Johnson and defensive end Tim Jamison – for markedly different reasons.

Johnson, beset by minor injuries since training camp began, came out of the New Orleans game banged up and stayed behind at Reliant Stadium to receive treatment. He hasn’t practiced the last couple of days, but coach Gary Kubiak insisted he’s “doing fine.”

As for Jamison, who has been filling in for the injured J.J. Watt, Kubiak said “his wife is in labor as we speak.”

Kubiak said the luncheon, which was a sellout, made it a long day for the players and coaching staff, but he called it “a good day” because of the attendees’ enthusiasm.

“Our fans have been tremendous,” he said. “We appreciate the support.”

Regarding the high expectations for the Texans, who are coming off their first playoff season, Kubiak insisted he shares everyone’s high hopes.

“I appreciate the fact that people are saying a lot of good things about us,” he said. “I said (at the luncheon) I think we’re going to have a good football team. But we want to be great, and we’ve got some work to do. We’ve got some new faces that have to step up.”

Big night for Posey, Norris

Rookie receiver DeVier Posey and veteran fullback Moran Norris will see significant playing time against the Vikings.
Posey has been slowed by a sore calf muscle.

As for Norris, who’s trying to stick with the Texans for a second time after spending three seasons with the franchise from 2002 through 2005, coach Gary Kubiak said: “It’s a big game for him because we’re trying to make a decision.